The 22nd Annual HD Awards Ceremony Celebrates Excellence in Hospitality Design and Innovation

Nearly 450 industry leaders, designers, hoteliers, and innovators converged on Las Vegas on May 5th, 2026, at the opulent Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, a fitting venue for the prestigious 22nd annual Hospitality Design HD Awards. This highly anticipated event, held concurrently with the influential HD Expo, served as a vibrant platform to honor the exceptional talent and groundbreaking achievements that are shaping the future of the hospitality sector. The ceremony recognized outstanding projects and innovative products that have set new benchmarks for design, guest experience, and operational excellence over the past year.

A Night of Recognition and Celebration

The evening was a testament to the dynamism and creativity inherent in hospitality design. From the sleek lines of urban boutique hotels to the expansive luxury of resort destinations, the nominated projects showcased a diverse range of styles and approaches. The HD Awards, now in its 22nd year, has solidified its reputation as a premier arbiter of quality and innovation within the global hospitality design community. This year’s edition saw an unprecedented number of submissions, reflecting the industry’s ongoing commitment to pushing creative boundaries and elevating the guest experience.

Grupo Habita and Curioso Named Industry Leaders

In a significant highlight of the evening, Grupo Habita was bestowed with the esteemed title of Hotelier of the Year, an award that recognizes a hotel group’s consistent commitment to exceptional design, unique brand identity, and superior guest service. Grupo Habita has long been celebrated for its distinctive approach to hospitality, often focusing on immersive experiences and architecturally significant properties that resonate deeply with discerning travelers. Their portfolio consistently demonstrates a keen understanding of how design can translate into memorable stays and strong brand loyalty.

Complementing this recognition, Curioso was celebrated as Design Firm of the Year. This award acknowledges a design studio that has consistently delivered innovative, impactful, and aesthetically compelling projects across the hospitality landscape. Curioso’s portfolio is marked by its ability to blend creativity with functionality, often resulting in spaces that are not only visually stunning but also highly practical and reflective of the client’s vision and target demographic. Their consistent excellence and influence within the design community have earned them this coveted accolade.

Kamille Glenn Honored with HDAC Awards of Excellence

Further underscoring the depth of talent within the industry, Kamille Glenn was named the HDAC Awards of Excellence honoree. This prestigious recognition celebrates an individual who has made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of hospitality design, whether through their innovative work, leadership, mentorship, or advocacy for design excellence. The HDAC Awards of Excellence is a testament to individuals who embody the spirit of innovation and dedication that drives the industry forward.

The Significance of the HD Awards

The HD Awards ceremony is more than just an awards presentation; it is a vital convergence point for the hospitality design ecosystem. It provides a crucial opportunity for professionals to connect, share insights, and celebrate the collective achievements that drive the industry forward. The awards themselves serve as a benchmark for excellence, influencing design trends and inspiring future projects. By highlighting both established leaders and emerging talents, the HD Awards fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

The competition typically spans a wide array of categories, including but not limited to:

• Hotels: Recognizing excellence in new builds, renovations, and specific hotel types (e.g., boutique, luxury, budget, resort).
• Restaurants and Bars: Honoring innovative and captivating dining and drinking establishments.
• Spas and Wellness: Celebrating serene and restorative environments.
• Public Spaces: Acknowledging exceptional lobbies, lounges, and other communal areas.
• Guestrooms: Focusing on comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
• Products: Recognizing outstanding contributions in furniture, lighting, textiles, accessories, and technology designed for hospitality.

The rigorous selection process involves a panel of esteemed industry professionals who meticulously review submissions, ensuring that only the most deserving projects and products receive recognition. This commitment to a fair and transparent judging process lends significant weight and credibility to the HD Awards.

Sponsors: Pillars of Support for Design Excellence

The success of the HD Awards is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors. These partnerships underscore a shared commitment to fostering innovation and celebrating achievement in the hospitality design sector. The 2026 event was particularly grateful for the contributions of:

• Title Sponsors: Interiors from Spain and VISO, whose significant backing provided the foundation for the event.
• Student Competition Sponsor: Williams Sonoma Business to Business/West Elm, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing future design talent.
• VIP Table Sponsor: Waterworks, enhancing the experience for distinguished guests.
• Event Sponsor: Preciosa, contributing to the grandeur and atmosphere of the ceremony.
• Supporting Sponsors: Fairmont Designs, Phillip Jeffries Contract, Remington Lighting, and Room & Board for Business, whose contributions further enriched the event and its associated programs.

The involvement of these sponsors highlights the interconnectedness of the industry, where manufacturers, suppliers, and hospitality operators collaborate to elevate the overall standard of design.

A Glimpse into the Future of Hospitality Design

The projects and individuals honored at the 22nd annual HD Awards offer a compelling glimpse into the evolving landscape of hospitality. Trends observed in this year’s winning and finalist entries likely include:

• Sustainability and Biophilia: An increasing emphasis on environmentally conscious design, incorporating natural materials, biophilic elements, and energy-efficient solutions. This reflects a growing awareness among both designers and consumers of the importance of responsible design practices.
• Technology Integration: Seamless incorporation of smart technology to enhance guest convenience, personalize experiences, and improve operational efficiency, without compromising the aesthetic or tactile qualities of the design.
• Wellness and Resilience: A heightened focus on creating spaces that promote physical and mental well-being, with an emphasis on comfort, natural light, air quality, and adaptable layouts. This trend has been significantly influenced by recent global events.
• Authenticity and Local Connection: A move towards designs that celebrate local culture, heritage, and craftsmanship, offering guests a more authentic and immersive experience. This often involves sourcing local materials and collaborating with local artisans.
• Flexible and Multifunctional Spaces: The rise of adaptable environments that can serve multiple purposes, catering to the diverse needs of modern travelers, from remote work to social gatherings.

Looking Ahead: The Impact of the HD Awards

The recognition bestowed by the HD Awards has a tangible impact on the careers of designers and the success of hospitality ventures. Winning or being a finalist can significantly boost a firm’s profile, attract new clients, and provide a competitive edge in a crowded market. For hotel groups and operators, association with award-winning design can translate into increased bookings, positive media attention, and enhanced brand reputation.

Moreover, the HD Awards serve as an invaluable educational resource for the industry. By showcasing exemplary projects and products, the awards highlight best practices, inspire creative solutions, and foster a shared understanding of what constitutes excellence in hospitality design. The insights gleaned from these annual celebrations ripple throughout the sector, influencing design briefs, product development, and the very way we conceive of and experience hospitality spaces.

The 22nd annual HD Awards ceremony in Las Vegas was more than just a gathering; it was a reaffirmation of the power of design to transform spaces, create experiences, and shape the future of an industry that touches millions of lives daily. The continued success of this event, and the caliber of its honorees, solidifies its position as a cornerstone of the hospitality design world.

Published: June 14, 2026
By Caitlin St John